Vena Bertha Atkinson Kelso

Funeral services for longtime area resident Vena Bertha Atkinson Kelso will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 5, at Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Cortez Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by Ute Mountain American Legion Post #75.

Vena was born May 28, 1916, in Quail, Tex., the daughter of William Iredel and Elsie Viola (Powell) Atkinson. She passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2013, at Vista Grande Inn at the age of 96.

Vena spent many years working. She was employed by W.T. Woolworth Company, J.C. Penney Company and Crow Canyon. Vena loved her animals and going for walks. Spending time with her family brought Vena much joy.

Vena is survived by her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews, great-great-great-nieces, and great-great-great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; by her daughter, Sara Beth Newman; and by her siblings, Sally Atkinson, Howard Atkinson, Granville Atkinson, Dee Wilson, Glennice Daves, and W.I. Atkinson.

Memorial contributions may be made in Vena Kelso's name to Madison House or to Crow Canyon.

Services are under the direction of Ertel Funeral Home. For further information or to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.ertelfuneralhome.com.